Shahid Afridi scolded Amir for on-field behavior, statement against Babar

Former Pakistan cricketer, Shahid Afridi has revealed that he texted and scolded Amir for his on-field behavior in the first two matches for Karachi Kings in HBL Pakistan Super League season eight.

Amir lost his cool during the match between Karachi Kings and Islamabad United on Thursday.

Emerging batsman, Hassan Nawaz, tried to take on Amir on his first delivery but missed the connection. Left-arm pacer didn’t like it and said few words to the rookie batsman. Later after dismissing Nawaz, Amir gave him a send-off. Amir also had a heated exchange with Tom Curran in the same match.

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While speaking on a local TV channel, the former all-rounder said that he advised the left-arm pacer to not tarnish his image with unnecessary antics.

“Whenever a player doesn't perform, or even if he does, I drop him a message for call him. Likewise, I messaged Amir yesterday. I talked to him respectfully, but I also scolded him. I told Amir, ‘what do you want?’ You have gained so much respect, you faced a blot on your reputation and from there, you made a return. You got a new life, in a way. What are you even trying to do?” Afridi said.

“Is this the way to play? There are juniors around you, you are using bad words. There are fans who are disheartened to see that. Even we have used such words and sometimes, the camera used to catch us. There are families, kids watching you on television. Aggression is fine, but keep it under control,” Afridi further said.

Afridi also mentioned Amir’s on-field clash with Peshawar Zalmi and Pakistan captain, Babar Azam earlier this week on Tuesday.

Babar had flicked Amir for a boundary during his 68-run knock, which frustrated the left-arm pacer and he threw the next ball towards Babar in desperation.

“If you want to play for Pakistan, you have to play alongside Babar only. Will you be able to look at him in the eye? Can you play under his captaincy? Focus on your performance, control your aggression, and go back home peacefully,” Afridi said.

The former Pakistan captain revealed that the pacer understood his criticism and apologized for his behavior.

“He said sorry and thanked me for noticing this,” Afridi concluded.